The Role Of Information Systems To Support Disaster Management

Society is challenged by various catastrophes, requiring fast and accurate management of information and communication. Handling these challenges needs clearly-defined and well-accepted processes and - most critically - a huge quantity of data, which has to be collected, processed and submitted. In the context of natural catastrophes and public disaster management, governments are challenged. Beyond government involvement, private companies are also forced to react to disasters, establish appropriate procedures, define responsibilities, and make decisions. In such times of emergency, information systems (IS) are important instruments used to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of disaster-handling activities in companies. Furthermore, information systems support companies in their efforts to regain trust, reestablish reputation, and sustain their ability to operate. In this exploratory work, we have investigated how information systems support disaster management in two companies within the passenger transportation industry. Based on interviews, we identified different IS support for disaster management, especially for coordinating activities, processing information, and communicating with stakeholders. We validated the need for training, harmonisation and standardisation of information, as well as ways to manage false news about accidents that may be transmitted via social media.